Matrix metalloproteinases as novel disease markers in Takayasu arteritis - Possible implication in pathophysiology

Takayasu arteritis is an idiopathic vasculitis that primarily affects large elastic arteries and tends to progress and relapse in its clinical course. Therefore, monitoring of disease activity is crucial. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) have generally been used as disease activity markers, but they are known to lack the sensitivity and specificity to accurately monitor the disease status. In Takayasu arteritis, the normal architecture of the vessel is disrupted, resulting from characterized degeneration of the elastic lamella in the media of affected elastic arteries. Given the histological findings, we showed that matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) might play roles in the pathogenesis of Takayasu arteritis and circulating levels of MMP-2 can be helpful in diagnosing and those of MMP-3 and MMP-9 can be used as activity markers for the disease. In the near future, MMPs suppression could be a first line therapy for the disease.